2012 mercedes-benz e-class Model Overview

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The E-Class is arguably the most varied model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, offering customers the choice of a sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class model year marks the return of the E63 AMG wagon after a two-year hiatus from the United States. Additionally, both the E63 AMG sedan and wagon receive AMG’s new 5.5-liter, twin-turbo, direct-injected V-8-engine rated at 518 horsepower. Also new for AMG models is ECO Start/Stop technology, which shuts off the engine at stop lights for added fuel efficiency.

The 2012 E350 and E550 also get a new engine; the former is now powered by a new, direct-injected V-6-engine that puts out 302 hp, while the latter gets a new 4.6-liter, twin-turbo, 402-hp V-8 that is also found in the CL550, S550, and CLS550. Both engines are mated to a new seven-speed transmission that helps improve fuel economy. The E350 Bluetec diesel engine carries over unchanged.

Outside, the sheetmetal remains untouched, though all E-Class models now feature standard LED daytime running lamps. Inside, passengers will find a revised steering wheel, a new color instrument cluster display, and a media interface that has been relocated to the center console.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class receives a few minor revisions mostly to the interior, including a new and redesigned steering wheel, a color instrument display panel, and a media interface that is relocated to the center console. LED daytime running lamps are now standard on all E-Class models. Non-AMG variants are fitted with a new, more fuel-efficient, seven-speed automatic transmission. All models except the Bluetec diesel feature new, more fuel-efficient engines with direct injection including a new, direct-injected V-6-engine that puts out 302 hp and a new 4.6-liter, twin-turbo, 402-hp V-8. The E63 AMG wagon makes a comeback after a two-year hiatus from the States.

The current E-Class exterior design debuted in the 2010 model year and featured sharper creases all around and a distinct character line from the side. The E-Class Coupe features a swoopy roofline, a large three-pointed star centered in the grille, and a missing B-pillar, which results in a more airy appearance from the outside. The E-Class Cabriolet features a retractable soft-top with a slightly revised trunk lid, and the wagon variants offer added cargo room with a wide-opening rear hatch door. AMG models sport a markedly performance-oriented look with quad-tip exhausts, larger rims, and a body kit.

Most of the appearance revisions for the 2012 E-Class take place inside. Drivers and passengers will find a new and revised steering wheel, a color instrument display panel, and a media interface that has been moved to the center console. The interior is trimmed with Mercedes’ MB Tex leatherette or real leather, real wood accents, soft-touch plastics, LED ambient lighting, and heated front seats with optional ventilation. AMG variants receive extra seat bolstering, and optional carbon fiber trim.

All models except the E350 Bluetec diesel receive new engines that improve both performance and fuel efficiency. E350 variants are now fitted with a 3.5-liter, direct-injected, V-6-engine rated at 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. E550 models get a 4.6-liter, direct-injected, twin-turbo V-8 rated at 402 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque; both engines are linked to a new fuel-efficient seven-speed transmission. AMG models get the new 5.5-liter, twin-turbo, V-8-engine rated at 518 hp and 516 lb-ft; an optional AMG Performance Package bumps power to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft. AMG variants also feature engine start/stop technology.

Standard features include nine airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control. The E-Class can be had with the Driver Assistant Package with includes Distronic active cruise control plus, active lane keeping assist, and active blind spot assist with automatic brake intervention. Also optional is Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Nightview Assist Plus that detects and illuminates pedestrians on the road.

2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Pricing

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price

$49,800

Certified Pre Owned Pricewhat is this?

$26,675

Certified Pre-Owned Price is the approximate price a consumer can expect to pay at a dealership for a used vehicle that has passed the manufacturer's certification process. This price applies only to vehicles covered under an automaker's CPO program, not to a dealership's own "certified" used price.

Recalls

If the fuel filter flange cracks, it will leak fuel which may lead to a fire if an external ignition source is present.

Recall Date

0000-00-00

Description

Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 S400, S550, S550 4Matic, S63 AMG, C300, C300 4Matic, E350, GLK350, GLK350 4Matic, CL550 4Matic, and CL63 AMG vehicles manufactured from April 18, 2011, through July 12, 2011. Due to an irregularity stemming from the molding process of the fuel filter flange, the fuel filter flange may crack when operated in high temperatures.

Remedy

Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel filter, free of charge. The recall campaign is expected to begin in February 2013. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.

Units Affected

5800

Recall ID#12V492000 - AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW

Consequence

In the event of an accident necessitating the deployment of the right window curtain air bag, the improper stitching may cause it to deflate more quickly than intended, reducing the protection it may provide, resulting in an increased risk of injury to vehicle occupants.

Recall Date

0000-00-00

Description

Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2012 E350 and E550 Coupe vehicles, manufactured April 2, 2012, through June 29, 2012. Improper stitching of the right side window curtain air bag may cause it to not deploy as intended in the affected vehicles.

Remedy

Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the right side window curtain air bag. The recall began on December 21, 2012. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.

2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class News and Reviews

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